There are over 8.5 million finance-related jobs in the United States, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This includes roles in accounting, banking, insurance, financial planning, investment, and real estate. The finance sector adds hundreds of thousands of new jobs each year, with steady demand across public and private companies.
The finance and insurance industry employed about 6.6 million people in 2023. An additional 1.9 million worked in accounting and related services. Job opportunities are also increasing in FinTech, with startups and digital banks hiring analysts, developers, and risk managers at a fast pace.
In 2023, financial analyst positions alone had over 370,000 active listings across the United States. Roles like accountants and auditors had over 1.4 million employed professionals, with about 126,000 new job openings expected each year through 2031.
Globally, finance remains one of the most stable career fields. The World Economic Forum lists finance among the top five industries for job creation through digital transformation. Major financial hubs like New York, London, Singapore, and Frankfurt continue to grow, adding thousands of jobs annually.
Demand stays high due to economic expansion, stricter financial regulations, and the need for financial risk management. Professionals with strong analytical skills, certifications, and business education have greater access to the most competitive roles.
What Are the Most In-Demand Jobs in Finance?
The most in-demand finance jobs focus on data, risk, and strategic planning. Employers seek professionals who can analyze markets, manage money, and guide financial decisions. These roles exist across banks, corporations, startups, and government agencies.
Here are the top roles:
- Financial Analyst
Over 370,000 job postings per year. Analysts study financial data to help companies make smart investment decisions.
Average salary: $96,000
Growth rate: 8% (2021–2031) - Accountant and Auditor
More than 1.4 million people employed in the U.S. Demand is high due to tax laws and financial reporting needs.
Average salary: $77,000
Growth rate: 6% - Investment Banker
Helps companies raise capital and handle mergers. Roles are fewer but very competitive and high paying.
Average salary: $125,000+
Top cities: New York, London, Hong Kong - Risk Manager
Companies need experts to spot financial risks and protect assets. This role is growing fast in banking and insurance.
Average salary: $110,000
Common sectors: Banking, FinTech, energy - Financial Planner
Individuals and families rely on planners for budgeting, retirement, and investment advice.
Average salary: $95,000
Top employers: Banks, private firms, insurance companies
FinTech is also boosting job growth. Roles like quantitative analyst, blockchain expert, and financial data scientist are growing by over 20% per year in some markets. These roles often require technical skills like Python, SQL, and financial modeling.
Employers prefer candidates who have practical experience, financial certifications, and strong Excel or analytical skills.
What Skills Are Employers Looking For in Finance Professionals?
Employers in finance look for a mix of technical, analytical, and communication skills. These abilities help professionals solve problems, make decisions, and explain financial data clearly. Job candidates with these skills are more likely to get hired and promoted.
Most in-demand skills in finance:
- Financial analysis
Understanding balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow reports is essential for roles like analysts and controllers. - Excel proficiency
Excel remains the most-used tool in finance. Skills like pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and financial modeling are standard job requirements. - Data analysis and visualization
Knowing how to work with large data sets and use tools like Power BI or Tableau gives candidates a strong advantage. - Accounting knowledge
Familiarity with GAAP, IFRS, and auditing practices is key for jobs in accounting, assurance, and compliance. - SQL and Python
Employers in banking and FinTech prefer analysts who can query databases and automate tasks with basic programming. - Communication skills
Finance professionals must explain complex numbers to non-finance teams, clients, or executives. - Problem-solving ability
Employers value candidates who can identify risks, suggest solutions, and improve financial performance. - Business acumen
Understanding markets, customers, and competition helps finance professionals make better strategic decisions.
According to a 365 Financial Analyst survey, over 65% of hiring managers said Excel and data analysis were “critical skills” for finance roles. Certifications like CFA, CPA, or FMVA also help prove skill level and make candidates stand out.
What Entry-Level Finance Jobs Are Most Accessible?
Entry-level finance jobs are widely available across banks, corporations, accounting firms, and startups. These roles are designed for recent graduates or professionals with little experience but a strong understanding of financial principles. Most positions require a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or business.
One of the most common entry-level roles is junior financial analyst. These analysts help senior staff by collecting data, building reports, and tracking budgets. Many companies offer rotational programs where junior analysts work in different departments such as budgeting, forecasting, and investment analysis.
Accounting assistants and audit associates are also popular roles. They handle basic bookkeeping, prepare invoices, and assist with financial reports or tax filings. These jobs provide a strong foundation in financial compliance and often lead to higher positions in accounting or auditing.
In retail banking, roles like bank teller or personal banking associate allow candidates to learn about financial products, customer service, and branch operations. These jobs often serve as stepping stones toward careers in credit analysis or loan underwriting.
Graduates interested in investments often start as operations analysts or portfolio assistants at asset management firms. These positions involve data entry, trade support, and performance tracking, offering exposure to financial markets.
Most entry-level finance jobs offer salaries between $45,000 and $65,000, depending on the role and location. While experience is limited at this stage, employers value candidates who show strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and solid Excel skills. Internships, case competitions, and certifications such as FMVA (Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst) can increase job prospects significantly.
How Many Finance Jobs Are Available by Sector?
Finance jobs are spread across multiple sectors, each with its own hiring trends, growth patterns, and role types. Understanding these sectors helps job seekers target industries that match their skills and career goals.
1. Banking
The banking sector remains the largest employer in finance. It includes commercial banks, investment banks, and credit unions. Roles such as relationship managers, loan officers, and financial analysts are in constant demand. In the U.S. alone, commercial banking employs over 2 million people. Investment banks hire thousands of new analysts each year, especially in financial centers like New York and London.
2. Insurance
Insurance companies employ over 2.8 million professionals in areas such as underwriting, claims analysis, and risk management. The demand for actuaries and data analysts has grown with the rise of insurtech. Many roles require strong statistical and regulatory knowledge.
3. Asset Management
Firms that manage investments for individuals and institutions employ portfolio managers, research analysts, and operations staff. According to Statista, assets under management (AUM) globally exceeded $119 trillion in 2023, driving demand for talent in this sector. Entry-level roles often begin in fund operations or client reporting.
4. Corporate Finance
Large companies across all industries hire in-house finance teams to manage budgeting, forecasting, treasury, and financial planning. Corporate finance teams are key to business strategy. Most Fortune 500 companies have multiple finance roles, including financial controllers, FP&A analysts, and tax managers.
5. FinTech
FinTech is the fastest-growing finance sector. Startups and tech-driven companies need professionals who understand both finance and technology. Popular roles include financial data analysts, product managers, and compliance officers. In 2024, global FinTech employment passed 400,000 workers, with steady year-over-year growth of 15–20%.
6. Public Sector and Nonprofits
Government agencies, regulatory bodies, and nonprofit organizations hire financial examiners, budget analysts, and grant managers. These jobs offer more stability and often require knowledge of public finance and compliance rules.
Each sector offers different work environments, salary levels, and skill requirements. Candidates who specialize early and align their skill set with sector trends often find better job security and faster career advancement.
How Competitive Is the Finance Job Market?
The finance job market is highly competitive, especially for top-tier roles in investment banking, private equity, and corporate finance. Entry-level positions often receive hundreds of applications per opening, particularly in large firms and global financial hubs. To stand out, candidates need a mix of strong academic performance, practical experience, and in-demand skills.
For example, major investment banks report acceptance rates of under 5% for their analyst programs. Even mid-size firms look for candidates with internships, case competition wins, or certifications like CFA Level 1 or FMVA. Roles such as financial analyst or credit analyst typically require advanced Excel, financial modeling, and knowledge of accounting principles.
Despite the competition, the demand for skilled finance professionals remains strong. The BLS reports over 700,000 annual openings in business and financial occupations, which includes both new roles and replacements for retiring workers.
Remote work has increased the number of applicants per job by broadening the talent pool. As a result, employers now expect more from candidates even at the entry level—such as familiarity with data tools (Tableau, SQL) or prior work on financial forecasts or budgets.
Professionals with relevant certifications have a clear edge. For instance, CFA charterholders earn up to 50% more than peers in comparable roles, according to CFA Institute surveys. Networking also plays a key role. Many roles are filled through referrals or campus recruitment pipelines, not just public job ads.
To succeed in this environment, candidates must build both technical and soft skills, demonstrate real-world experience, and show clear value during interviews.
Where Can You Find Current Finance Job Listings?
Finance job listings are available across multiple platforms, ranging from general job boards to finance-specific websites. Each platform offers filters to search by location, experience level, industry, and salary range, making it easier to find roles that match your profile.
LinkedIn is one of the most-used platforms for finance job searches. It lists thousands of roles daily, from internships to executive positions. It also shows how many people have applied and whether you meet the job criteria. Many recruiters also use LinkedIn to find candidates directly.
Indeed and Glassdoor provide a large volume of listings, including jobs in banking, accounting, FinTech, and corporate finance. Users can filter by company size, salary, and qualifications. Glassdoor also offers company reviews, which help candidates understand the work environment before applying.
For more specialized searches, eFinancialCareers focuses on banking, asset management, and investment roles globally. It features positions at top firms like JPMorgan, BlackRock, and Goldman Sachs, along with market insights and salary data.
Wall Street Oasis and FinancialJobsWeb are useful for early-career professionals looking for internships or entry-level positions in investment banking or private equity. These sites also share recruiting timelines, interview tips, and resume templates.
University career centers often partner with employers for exclusive listings. Some firms only recruit through school networks or structured graduate programs. Professional organizations like the CFA Institute and AICPA also post openings targeted at certified candidates.
To improve your chances, it’s helpful to set up job alerts, apply early, and tailor your resume for each role. Connecting with recruiters and alumni on LinkedIn can also uncover opportunities that aren’t publicly listed.
How Do Certifications and Degrees Influence Job Availability?
Certifications and degrees directly affect job access, salary potential, and career progression in finance. Employers often use them as filters during recruitment, especially for competitive roles in investment, accounting, and risk management.
A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or business is the minimum requirement for most finance roles. However, candidates with only a degree often face stiff competition. That’s where certifications come in—they prove expertise, signal commitment, and help candidates stand out.
The CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) designation is one of the most respected certifications for investment roles. According to the CFA Institute, CFA charterholders earn up to 53% more than non-charterholders in similar roles. Many asset management and hedge fund jobs prefer or require CFA certification.
The CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is essential for accounting, audit, and tax roles. It opens doors in public accounting firms, corporate finance departments, and government agencies. Employers often list it as a requirement for senior or managerial accounting positions.
The FMVA (Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst) certification has become popular for roles in corporate finance, FP&A, and investment banking. It focuses on practical Excel skills, valuation models, and budgeting techniques. It’s often chosen by early-career professionals who want to boost job readiness quickly.
For risk, audit, and compliance roles, the FRM (Financial Risk Manager) and CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) are in high demand. These designations are especially relevant in banking and insurance.
Holding a certification increases job visibility. Many job platforms allow employers to filter applicants by credential. In surveys, over 70% of finance recruiters said they give preference to certified candidates when reviewing applications.
While certifications don’t replace experience, they help bridge the gap for junior candidates and enhance credibility for senior roles. Combining a degree with relevant certifications often leads to better job prospects and faster promotions.
Summary Table: Finance Jobs Snapshot by Role, Sector, and Growth
This table shows key data points for popular finance roles, including job volume, average salary, required education, and growth outlook. The data is based on sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, industry reports, and job platforms.
| Job Title | Estimated U.S. Openings | Median Salary | Typical Education | Projected Growth (2021–2031) |
| Financial Analyst | 370,000+ | $96,000 | Bachelor’s degree | +8% |
| Accountant/Auditor | 1.4 million | $77,000 | Bachelor’s + CPA preferred | +6% |
| Investment Banker | 50,000+ | $125,000+ | Bachelor’s + MBA preferred | +5% |
| Risk Manager | 100,000+ | $110,000 | Bachelor’s degree | +9% |
| Financial Planner | 300,000+ | $95,000 | Bachelor’s + CFP preferred | +15% |
| Compliance Analyst | 120,000+ | $80,000 | Bachelor’s degree | +10% |
| Portfolio Manager | 90,000+ | $120,000+ | Bachelor’s + CFA preferred | +8% |
| Budget Analyst | 50,000+ | $82,000 | Bachelor’s degree | +3% |
| Insurance Underwriter | 100,000+ | $76,000 | Bachelor’s degree | -2% (decline) |
| Data Analyst (Finance) | 150,000+ | $85,000 | Bachelor’s + SQL/Python | +25% |
This snapshot helps compare roles side by side. It also highlights which positions are growing, which certifications give an edge, and where demand is highest across the finance job market.